Numismatic

1826 Bust Half Dollar XF

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The year 1826 marked a fascinating era in early United States coinage, exemplified by the elegant Capped Bust half dollar. Struck in Philadelphia from 89.24 percent pure silver, this fifty-cent piece represents a time when American coinage was establishing its visual identity. The coin contains just over 0.38 troy ounces of precious metal, combining substantial physical weight with the artistry of early nineteenth-century engraving. On the obverse, the profile of Lady Liberty faces right, wearing a stylized cap inscribed with her name. Thirteen stars surround her image, and the date 1826 is clearly struck at the bottom. The reverse displays a heraldic eagle with a shield draped across its chest. In its talons, the eagle grasps both an olive branch and a bundle of arrows, representing peace and military readiness. Above the eagle, a scroll displays the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM, while the denomination is marked below as 50 C.